Controlled Descent

Descending concrete risers twice my height required a disciplined cadence. Rather than dropping blindly, I worked down the vertical steel handrail posts. Gripping the smooth black enamel with both hands, I slid in controlled stages, flexing my knees upon impact to absorb the shock against the grooved concrete. Twelve treads later, my boots met the level expanse of the bottom landing. Ahead, a faded yellow safety stripe stretches across the floor toward the emergency exit. A low, continuous draft whistles beneath the heavy rubber door sweep, bringing the sharp scent of damp asphalt and rain. Base level reached. The path ahead is clear.